Hape considers union switch

Vainikolo, who switched codes with Gloucester in June, will make his full England debut against Italy on Sunday, and Hape has raised the prospect of one day joining him in the national team.

The 26-year-old former Auckland Warrior, who qualifies for England on residency grounds, told the Bradford Telegraph and Argus: "I have thought about rugby union and I can see why it's attractive. Les is doing well there and that's great, but that's his career - I've got to concentrate on mine."

Hape, who won his 11th cap for the Kiwis in November's second Test defeat by Great Britain, has scored 78 tries in 116 appearances for the Bulls and won all there is to win in rugby league.

He could also double his earnings in the Guinness Premiership, where clubs have greater spending power because the salary cap is more generous than the engage Super League equivalent.

Hape added: "Obviously I am out of contract this year and I've got to assess everything and sit down with my manager.

"I'm coming towards the back end of my career and I need to go where the best deal is for me and my family."